Peppermint Swirl Cookies

Peppermint Swirl Cookies are the perfect festive treat that brings joy to any occasion. With their delightful red and white swirls, these cookies not only look beautiful but also pack a refreshing minty flavor. Ideal for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or simply as a special dessert at home, these cookies are sure to impress everyone. Their unique appearance and delicious taste make them a standout choice for your baking repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
• Festive Appeal: The striking red and white swirls create a visually appealing treat perfect for holiday celebrations.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of vanilla and peppermint extracts delivers a refreshing taste that everyone loves.
• Customizable Coating: Roll the cookies in coarse sugar or crushed peppermint candies to add an extra crunch and sweetness.
• Perfect for Sharing: With about four dozen cookies, this recipe is ideal for parties and gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

To get started with your Peppermint Swirl Cookies, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Plastic wrap
• Rolling pin
• Parchment paper
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients effectively without mess.
• Electric mixer: Helps achieve a light and fluffy texture that ensures well-mixed batter.
• Plastic wrap: Keeps your dough chilled and prevents it from drying out during refrigeration.

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Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

• 2 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract

For the Color & Coating

• Red gel food coloring
• 1/4 cup coarse sugar or crushed peppermint candies for coating

How to Make Peppermint Swirl Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg followed by the vanilla extract and peppermint extract until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. A soft dough should form; do not overmix.

Step 4: Divide and Color Dough

Divide the dough in half. Leave one half plain. Add red gel food coloring to the second half, mixing until uniform in color.

Step 5: Chill Dough Balls

Wrap each ball of dough separately in plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up.

Step 6: Roll Out Dough

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the plain dough into a 10×12 inch rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Repeat with the red dough.

Step 7: Layer Doughs

Carefully lay the red dough rectangle on top of the plain dough rectangle. Gently press them together.

Step 8: Roll into Log

Starting from one long side, carefully roll both layers tightly into a log while pressing gently to eliminate air pockets. Ensure it’s consistently tight for defined swirls.

Step 9: Chill Again

Wrap the dough log tightly in plastic wrap again. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until very firm.

Step 10: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 11: Prepare for Baking

Remove chilled dough log from refrigerator. Lightly brush with water or whisked egg white if desired; then roll in coarse sugar or crushed peppermint candies for coating.

Step 12: Slice Cookies

Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 1/4 inch thick rounds. Place sliced cookies about 1 inch apart on prepared baking sheets.

Step 13: Bake

Bake for 8 to 10 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Avoid overbaking.

Step 14: Cool Cookies

Let cookies cool on baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your Peppermint Swirl Cookies fresh from the oven!

How to Serve Peppermint Swirl Cookies

Peppermint Swirl Cookies are not only delicious but also visually stunning, making them perfect for various occasions. Here are some creative ways to serve these delightful treats.

Festive Cookie Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a colorful platter with other holiday treats to create a charming centerpiece.
• Use peppermint sticks or candy canes as decorative accents.

Holiday Gift Bags

• Pack several cookies in clear bags tied with festive ribbon for homemade gifts.
• Add a handwritten note for a personal touch.

Hot Beverage Pairing

• Serve with hot chocolate or peppermint tea for a cozy treat.
• Consider garnishing drinks with whipped cream and crushed peppermint for extra flair.

Cookie Decorating Station

• Set up a decorating station where guests can add icing or sprinkles to their cookies.
• Provide different toppings like chocolate chips, nuts, or colored sugars.

Seasonal Dessert Table

• Include the cookies on a dessert table at holiday parties alongside cakes and pies.
• Complement with themed decorations like snowflakes or Christmas lights.

How to Perfect Peppermint Swirl Cookies

To achieve the best results when making Peppermint Swirl Cookies, follow these essential tips for a flawless bake.

• Chill the dough: Chilling the dough helps maintain its shape and enhances flavor.
• Avoid overmixing: Mix just until combined to keep the cookies tender.
• Keep it tight: When rolling the dough, ensure it’s tightly rolled to preserve the swirl pattern.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh butter and extracts will elevate the taste of your cookies significantly.
• Watch baking time: Keep an eye on your cookies; they should be lightly golden around the edges without overbaking.

Best Side Dishes for Peppermint Swirl Cookies

Peppermint Swirl Cookies pair wonderfully with various side dishes that enhance their flavor. Here are some delightful options:

1. Hot Chocolate: A rich, creamy beverage that complements the minty flavor of the cookies perfectly.
2. Peppermint Tea: A soothing herbal option that balances sweetness with a refreshing taste.
3. Fruit Salad: A light, fresh side that provides a healthy contrast to sweet cookies.
4. Cheese Platter: Offer assorted cheeses that add savory notes to the cookie’s sweetness.
5. Ice Cream: Vanilla or mint ice cream makes an indulgent pairing, especially during festive gatherings.
6. Nut Mix: A spicy or sweet nut mix adds crunch and flavor complexity alongside the soft cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Peppermint Swirl Cookies, it’s easy to slip up. Here are some common mistakes and how to steer clear of them.

• Skipping the chilling step: Failing to chill the dough can lead to cookies that spread too much during baking. Always remember to chill your dough to maintain those beautiful swirls.

• Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can make your cookies tough instead of soft and tender. Mix until just combined for the best texture.

• Using ungreased baking sheets: Not lining your baking sheets can cause cookies to stick. Always use parchment paper or silicone mats for easy removal.

• Neglecting oven temperature: An incorrect oven temperature can ruin your cookie batch. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate temperatures for perfect baking.

• Ignoring cooling time: Trying to move cookies too soon from the baking sheet can lead to breakage. Allow them to cool slightly before transferring them to a wire rack.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Peppermint Swirl Cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Peppermint Swirl Cookies

• Place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe container or ziplock bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Reheating Peppermint Swirl Cookies

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place cookies on a baking sheet and warm for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a warm treat.
• Stovetop: For a quick heat, place cookies in a skillet over low heat for about 1 minute, flipping halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Peppermint Swirl Cookies.

How do I achieve the best swirls in my Peppermint Swirl Cookies?

To get sharp swirls, ensure each layer of dough is rolled out evenly and chilled properly before rolling them together.

Can I use other flavors besides peppermint?

Absolutely! You can experiment with various extracts like almond or vanilla for different flavor profiles while maintaining the swirl technique.

How long do peppermint swirl cookies last?

Peppermint Swirl Cookies can last up to 5 days at room temperature or longer if stored in the fridge or freezer.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough in advance, chill it, and then slice and bake when ready.

Are there any substitutions I can make for allergies?

You can substitute gluten-free flour for all-purpose flour or use dairy-free butter alternatives if needed.

Final Thoughts

Peppermint Swirl Cookies are not only visually stunning but also deliciously festive. Their bright colors and minty flavor make them perfect for holiday gatherings or as delightful gifts. Feel free to customize them by adding chocolate chips or using different food colorings for various occasions. Enjoy baking these delightful treats!